Hair Loss & Premature Graying
Stress, worry, anxiety, and inadequate nutrition lead to hair loss and premature graying of hair. A certain amount of hair loss is considered normal, as old strands are replaced by new. When hair loss is excessive, care must be taken. Similarly, the graying of hair after a certain age is a normal phenomenon, but when this starts in the early years of life, one should look for remedies. This is a common problem in young adults, making them look older than their age. It can also occur in children. In Ayurveda, this disorder is known as khalitya-paalitya.
Home Remedies:
Mix powdered Indian gooseberry (amla; amalaki) and sesame seeds in equal amounts. Take 1 teaspoon twice a day with water.
Heat 250 milliliters of coconut oil in a pan, and add 3-4 Indian gooseberries cut into pieces. Heat until the gooseberries turn dark brown or black. Use the oil for a hair massage 2-3 times a week.
Take 1 cup of curry leaves and grind them with 1 cup of buttermilk. Apply this to the hair for 1 hour, and then wash the hair with an herbal shampoo.
Diet and Lifestyle:
Avoid pitta-aggravating foods like spicy, heavy, and oily foods, as well as tea and coffee. Avoid refined foods, refined sugar, junk food, and alcoholic and carbonated drinks. Increase intake of fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, and vegetable juice prepared from lettuce, carrot, capsicum, and alfalfa. Avoid using chemical products on the hair. Try to use herbal oils and shampoos.